Tips for a Great Guinea Pig Cage

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Have you recently decided to add a tiny furball to your household? Guinea pigs make great pets. These little ones are completely adorable, inexpensive, quite easy to care for, and very fun to watch. In order to keep your pet happy, the first thing you’ll need to provide is a comfortable habitat. In this article, a Fort Collins vet discusses elements of a great Guinea pig cage.

Size

Guinea pigs, also known as cavies, are very active little furballs! Make sure your pet’s cage offers plenty of room to run and play. As a rule of thumb, one cavy will need at least 7.5 square feet of space, as a minimum, but bigger is always better. One way to make the cage bigger without taking up more floor space is to add a second story, with an enclosed ramp for access.

Material

Make sure the cage is properly ventilated. Wire cages are a popular choice. You can also get a cage with plastic walls, but leave the top uncovered to ensure the little one gets plenty of fresh air. Your cavy’s home does need a solid bottom, though. Wire floors can hurt your pet’s feet, and won’t keep substrate contained.

Substrate

There are many options to choose from when it comes to substrate, and they all have their own pros and cons. Aspen shaving, wood pellets, and paper-based products are all acceptable choices. You can also use fleece bedding, or even soft towels, though you’ll need to wash them frequently. Avoid bedding made from cedar or pine, as these are harmful to small animals.

Toys

Guinea pigs love to play! Make sure to provide your tiny furball with plenty of entertainment options. Since cavies have open-rooted teeth, they need to chew constantly, so make sure to give your little one plenty of chewable toys. Pet-safe wood, straw, paper, wicker, and cardboard toys are all good choices.

Furniture

Your little buddy will also need food dishes, a water bottle, a litter box, and at least one hidey-hole to retreat to when he wants privacy. Guinea pigs also love cozies, which are basically little beds for cavies. You can buy your furball an adorable cozy at a store or online, or make one yourself.

Do you have questions about Guinea pig care? Contact us! As your Fort Collins veterinary hospital, we are happy to help!